It's going to be a quiet Fourth at the Midkiff residence. Generally, we go to my parents' home several hours north of here for an afternoon-long barbecue in which family members and numerous friends from their church are invited. However, my sister--who is a nurse--has to work today, as well as my daughter, who is her child care provider. We'll attend the local fireworks display this evening and then head up to the folks tomorrow for the feasting and fellowship. This is just a reminder to thank all those who have to work on holidays, allowing us to enjoy our celebrations and keeping our way of life safe: medical, emergency, and military personnel especially, although there are others as well. Freedom is never free!